WhatsApp has been working on username support for months. The messaging app will soon allow users to choose a unique username so they can reach others without sharing their phone number. WhatsApp’s new beta also shows users can set a PIN to limit spam and unwanted interactions.
According to the news from WABetaInfo, there are references to PIN support when setting a username in the beta version 2.24.18.2 of the Android application. If the feature goes live, it will be possible to choose to create a PIN code as an optional security measure. Thus, those who have your WhatsApp username will need to know your PIN code to start a chat with you.
This feature is intended to make it harder for spammers and other malicious people to contact you. If the PIN code is exposed, users will be able to change their PIN code. Those who want easier access to their profile can disable the PIN code completely.
It is also predicted that WhatsApp will give users the choice of showing their phone number or username. It is stated that those who wish will be able to hide their phone numbers completely, thus turning WhatsApp into a more private messaging application.
When will WhatsApp roll out username and PIN support?
WhatsApp is still developing the username and PIN feature. It should be noted that this feature has not yet been made available to beta testers. Therefore, it remains unclear when the feature will be available to all users.